Communities in and around Coffs Harbour will soon benefit from increased mental health support with the opening of a Medicare Mental Health Centre in late June.
Healthy North Coast, who delivers the North Coast Primary Health Network program on behalf of the Australian Government, today announced the successful service provider that will run the new Medicare Mental Health Centre.
Following a competitive tender process, Healthy North Coast has contracted local not-for-profit organisation Open Minds as the centre provider, bringing proven expertise in operating similar centres in our region.
Monika Wheeler, CEO of Healthy North Coast, said, “It is estimated that 43% of Australians will experience mental health distress at some point in their lives. It is vitally important we have a range of mental health services that are easily accessed in times of need.”
“Coffs Harbour residents will be able to visit the new Medicare Mental Health Centre via walk-in, with no appointments or referrals necessary, and free of charge.
“Our Lismore Centre, also run by Open Minds, opened in 2022 and has delivered over 9,000 sessions and supported more than 1,000 people. We’re confident that the Coffs Harbour Centre will be a welcome addition for residents looking for a tailored experience and connection to the right support for them and their circumstances, which are different for everyone,” said Ms Wheeler.
Rik Barker, General Manager of Integrated Mental Health Services (NSW) at Open Minds, also welcomed the announcement:
“We look forward to opening the doors in Coffs and delivering a quality mental health service, improving the wellbeing of people on the Mid North Coast.”
The Coffs Harbour Medicare Mental Health Centre will be staffed by mental health and allied health professionals who will be available for visitors, depending on their level of need. There will also be access to a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Worker for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients, delivered in partnership with Galambila Aboriginal Health Service.
“The new Centre announcement has been met with enthusiasm by local communities who will benefit from the free, drop-in style model of care. Co-located with the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, it will be a welcoming space for people to visit,” explained Ms Wheeler.
“If you’re not able to visit the Centre in person, I would encourage people to call the free Head to Health 1800 595 212 service. Specialist staff can help assess your needs and connect you to care over the phone. This is also a great option for people seeking support, and I encourage our communities to spread the word about these much-needed support services.”
Additional info:
- The Coffs Harbour Medicare Mental Health Centre will be co-located with the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, located in Block B of the Community Village, 22 Earl Street, Coffs Harbour.
- Initial hours of operation will be 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, with provisions in place for targeted/appointment-based services for up to 4 hours on Saturdays.
- Medicare Mental Health Centres are not crisis or emergency services. For urgent support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Mental Health Access Line on 1800 011 511. If you need immediate help or are at risk of harm to yourself or others, call 000 now.
About Open Minds:
With over 100 years of experience, Open Minds works to enhance mental health and wellbeing by delivering a range of tailored options and core supports focused on the individual needs of each person. They believe that every individual deserves personalised support in the areas of mental health and disability.
About Healthy North Coast:
Healthy North Coast is an independent, not-for-profit organisation proudly delivering the PHN program in North Coast NSW. They are committed to improving the health of their communities through quality primary health care. The PHN program is an Australian Government initiative.